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Canberra Health Services
Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services

Breast Screening with a Disability

Can I have a breast screen if I have a disability?

  • BreastScreen ACT is committed to reducing the barriers to screening for people with disabilities.
  • Most people with a disability can have a breast screen.
  • Family, friends, and carers can assist with part of the breast screen appointment.
  • Assistance dogs are welcome during the appointment.
  • We can provide longer appointments or two radiographers if needed.
Illustration of a person standing beside a guide dog wearing a harness and holding a white cane. The person wears sunglasses, a light-colored shirt, and dark pants. The guide dog stands calmly at the person's side against a plain light background.

Is it free?

The screening mammogram is free. There are no costs associated with a mammogram or if you are called back to our assessment clinic. You will need to have a Medicare card.

What if I have an intellectual disability?

We encourage you to discuss breast screening with your doctor (GP) if you have an intellectual disability. Our staff can work with you and your support person.

What if I need help with communication?

We can provide language interpreters and Auslan Interpreters at your appointment. Please let us know if you need these services when you book your appointment over the phone.

What does a mammogram involve?

The female radiographer will take you into a private x-ray room where you can remove your bra.

During the mammogram the radiographer will take at least two x-rays of each breast.

Your breast will be firmly compressed. This compression may be uncomfortable but is only for a short time. If you feel any discomfort, tell your radiographer.

The female radiographer may need to physically help position your breasts properly in the mammography machine.

A Mammogram takes only 20 minutes!

Do you have wheelchair access?

The City, Phillip and Belconnen clinics have wheelchair accessibility.

PIllustration of a wheelchair user positioned beside a robotic arm. The person is seated in a manual wheelchair and wears a long robe and headscarf. The robotic arm is shown facing the wheelchair user, suggesting the use of assistive technology or accessible automation. The image uses pink, teal, blue, and gray colors on a plain light background.

Are there other options if I cannot have a breast screen?

  • A mammogram is the best way of finding breast cancer. Like many other medical tests, it is not 100% accurate and it does not detect all cancers.
  • In some cases, because of equipment limitations and the individual differences of our own bodies and how we move, it might not be possible to capture all the breast tissue in the pictures taken. You and your GP will be notified it this happens.
  • It is important to know how your breasts normally look and feel. If you notice an unusual change, such as a lump or pain, please see your doctor (GP) as soon as possible.
Diagnostic mammogram image displaying breast tissue in profile, with varying densities visible throughout the breast for screening and evaluation purposes.
Image shows full breast, completely imaged.
Diagnostic mammogram image displaying a breast in profile, with varying tissue densities visible throughout the breast for clinical screening and evaluation purposes
Image shows majority of breast tissue, due to mobility challenges the full breast is not completely imaged.

Where can I have a breast screen in the ACT?

In the ACT there are three BreastSCreen clinics:

  • City - 1 Moore Street
  • Phillip - 17 Corinna Street
  • Belconnen - 56 Lathlain Street

How to book an appointment

Call BreastSCreen ACT 132050 between 8:30am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au